There are many reasons why travel insurance sales increased in 2016. More people are traveling due to the economic recovery we have seen over the past 7-8 years, and more agents are offering travel insurance. Also, the cost for travel increased in 2016 according to various reports. When travel costs increase, travel insurance sales also tend to increase because travelers want to protect their trip investments.

This type of insurance is designed to cover flight accidents, medical expenses, lost luggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption and other losses related to traveling. Here are some of the reasons why the sales increased in 2016.

Consumer Awareness
First, consumers are more aware about the benefits of travel insurance , and how it works. Insurance companies are increasing benefits, and they are providing better benefits. Some policies will cover pre-existing medical conditions. Another benefit is that customers can now file claims online, and use mobile applications to get policy information. You can also compare and buy online using a website like ours, which makes it easy to find the best deal on coverage.

Global Terrorism
Next, global terrorism had a direct impact on travel insurance in 2016. In November 2015, the Paris attacks increased activity on travel agency websites for terrorism travel insurance. One company reported an 81% increase in sales revenue. Consumers did not know how the attacks would affect their travel plans. Travelers are taking more precautions as they travel due to the real threat of global terrorism. When there is a terrorist attack, the demand for insurance increases.

The Zika Virus
Then, the Zika virus gave the trip insurance industry a boost in 2016. People were in fear of diseases while traveling to the Americas. Insurers put plans in place to cover persons that might get the virus. For instance, companies were providing medical evacuation and medical emergency trip insurance for their clients. Many travel insurance plans now protect you against expenses associated with the Zika virus.

In summary, sales of trip insurance increased in 2016 because of the global issues that we all face in the world today. The travel industry will continue to change because consumers are now finding out why it is important to buy trip insurance. Insurance agents are informing their clients about specific areas that may affect travel plans. Travel insurance sales are expected to increase because the technology is also getting better and it is easy to compare and buy online.